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The price of coal in Cuba has skyrocketed in recent months, becoming a luxury for many families who need it for cooking amid frequent power outages.
A report by 14yMedio detailed the prices in provinces such as Sancti Spíritus, where a bag costs 800 pesos; in Cienfuegos it goes up to 1,000 CUP and in Holguín it reaches 1,400.
This "black gold" is becoming increasingly difficult to obtain in a country where the energy crisis has set records for generation deficits. People do not have fuel to cook because, in addition to the 20-hour blackouts, there is also no stable supply of liquefied gas.
Havana without electricity, without gas, and without coal
The journalist Patrick Oppmann described on his social media the situation of the blackouts in Havana and how this affects the increase in the price of coal in the capital.
"The sun sets over a darkened Havana (...) Once again, electricity has been intermittently working throughout the day. Other parts of Cuba are in an even worse situation (...) A woman from the countryside told me that she is fortunate to live near a forest, as she can use firewood for cooking, because charcoal has become too expensive to buy."
Coal production in Las Tunas is in crisis
In this eastern province, the problem is exacerbated by the dismantling of Las Carboneras, a small community in Tunera dedicated to the production of plant fuel.
Despite the growing demand, coal production in Las Tunas is going through a tough time. The municipal company Agroforestal had only two permanent producers, who recently resigned. They rely on intermittent workers who "come, build a furnace, and leave."
State payments also do not help incentivize production. The price per kilogram rose from four to 15 pesos. The State continues to buy the sack for only 500 pesos, while it sells for three times that amount in the informal market. Additionally, producers must provide the empty sack, which discourages the few remaining charcoal producers.
Las Carboneras was a village of ten houses. The residents moved to Manatí after the school and the store closed. The government left the community without access to food or education.
The director of Agroforestal acknowledged that poverty in these communities is critical: "The charcoal workers need clothing, shoes, tools... They are not just any workers."
Frequently Asked Questions about the Increase in Coal Prices in Cuba and the Energy Crisis
Why has the price of coal risen in Cuba?
The price of coal in Cuba has increased due to the energy crisis. This crisis has caused shortages of electricity and liquefied gas, leading to high demand for coal as an alternative for cooking, especially in the lead-up to the year-end festivities.
What are the current prices of coal in different cities in Cuba?
In cities like Sancti Spíritus, the price of a sack of coal is 800 pesos; in Cienfuegos, 1,000 pesos; and in Holguín, 1,400 pesos. In other cities like Las Tunas and Camagüey, prices have reached up to 3,000 Cuban pesos.
How is the energy crisis affecting the use of coal in Cuban households?
The energy crisis forces many Cuban families to turn to coal as an alternative for cooking. This is due to prolonged blackouts that leave the island without electricity and a shortage of liquefied gas, further complicating the situation in households.
What measures has the Cuban government taken in response to the coal crisis?
The Cuban government has begun selling coal as a measure to tackle the crisis. However, this solution has been insufficient, as the supply does not meet the growing demand and prices are unaffordable for many Cubans.
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